The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially announced their decision on rookie quarterback Will Howard. Before the season started, the Steelers placed him on injured reserve as part of a series of roster moves this week.

Howard, a sixth-round draft pick out of Ohio State, fractured the pinkie finger on his throwing hand during a practice exchange. The move means Howard will miss at least the first four games of the regular season. However, his absence could stretch longer. Head coach Mike Tomlin said earlier this month the rookie was making progress in a light throwing program but was not yet ready for full participation.

The Steelers also placed rookie cornerback Donte Kent on injured reserve and signed veteran safety Chuck Clark, along with offensive lineman Max Scharping, to the active roster. Both Clark and Scharping spent training camp with Pittsburgh and were expected candidates to return after initial roster cuts.

The Steelers have a quarterback dilemma

The Howard decision carries added significance for the quarterback depth chart. Aaron Rodgers will start the season with Mason Rudolph backing him up. Veteran Skylar Thompson, who impressed during the preseason, will serve as the third quarterback. Keeping Thompson on the roster was an expected outcome once it became clear Howard would open the year on injured reserve.

The long-term question is how much Howard’s development will be affected by missing time. Some observers have argued that the lost practice reps could make 2025 feel like a redshirt season for the rookie. Others view the move as a low-risk decision. This allows Howard to recover while the Steelers keep more experienced options available behind Rodgers.

Howard arrived in Pittsburgh with significant college experience. He played 50 games and threw for nearly 10,000 yards and 83 touchdowns. Some analysts believe he could eventually push Rodgers for the starting job, but that possibility will now be delayed.

For the immediate future, the Steelers are prioritizing stability. Their season opens Sept. 7 on the road against the New York Jets, with Rodgers firmly in command and Howard sidelined until at least October.